I really can't think of a nicer way to say this other than saying that Dog Fancy article is almost entirely a load of crap. The ear cropping thing really got to me ... the EDUCATOR of the DPCA, our BREED CLUB, making Dobies sound like non-people dogs. That's a wonderful representation to have out there on an already misunderstood breed.

About the male/male pairing thing ... it just doesn't make sense to me. For one thing, does anyone really believe that Dobermans are that very unadaptable and untrainable that you could not make it work? Sure, some dogs are going to have more territorial instincts or whatever, but isn't that why you WORK with your dogs? We have had behavioral problems with dogs over the years, but we have ALWAYS worked through it with our dogs. It just takes time and commitment on the part of the owner, sometimes more than others.

Secondly, I think we all need to take a minute and remember that dogs are DOGS first, and their breed SECOND. All dogs want to please their owners. All dogs are adaptable and trainable. It is up to the OWNER to help them become well behaved and adapted though. You can't expect a kennel to do that for you, you can't expect them to come to you that way. It is entirely your responsibilty, and trust me, with time, care, and hard work, males CAN coexist peacefully.

I would love to hear what animal behaviorists have to say on this issue ...